Broward County Transit remembers Rosa Parks during Black History Month

Broward County Transit remembers Rosa Parks during Black History Month

Feb. 4, 2013 would have marked the 100th birthday of Rosa Parks. How appropriate that a person who has a significant and important role in the history of Black Americans was born during what we now celebrate as Black History Month. Mrs. Parks earned her place in not just Black History but American History by refusing to give up her seat on the bus to a White male, as was the practice in segregated Montgomery, Alabama. Her simple act of heroism in 1955 began the Montgomery Bus Boycott and helped launch the Civil Rights Movement and the emergence of its leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. To think, it all began on the bus.

America has recognized the accomplishments of Mrs. Parks in many ways. Recently the United States Congress authorized a commemorative stamp in her honor, but the public transit industry in America has looked upon her as its singular heroine for helping to open public transit to all and providing everyone with the dignity to ride. There are no seats designated by race anymore and public transit has never looked back. In every aspect of the industry from its passengers to its workforce, public transit has provided opportunities for employment and the freedom of mobility for all.

The employees of Broward County Transit (BCT), the public transit provider for Broward County, are pleased to recognize Mrs. Parks as we celebrate Black History Month. We are proud to carry on her legacy of equal opportunity and to acknowledge that simple acts of courage can make a difference. In fact, they can move a nation.

Recently, BCT, as the agency is familiarly known, was approached by some residents to name its newly opened transit center in Pompano Beach after Rosa Parks. An informal survey of the community found that there was wide spread support for the name change recognizing the link between Mrs. Parks and bus service. How just and befitting that there may be a Rosa Parks Transit Center on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard in Pompano Beach. Together again!